With the VISION LASERr, Walter Maschinenbau GmbH is setting new standards in the laser machining of brazed diamond tools. This state-of-the-art laser system has been specially developed to ensure maximum precision, efficiency and process reliability in tool production. Based on the proven platform of the HELITRONIC VISION, the machine combines decades of experience in tool grinding with cutting-edge laser technology. Following its successful trade fair debut at Ligna 2025 in Hanover and the subsequent presentation at EMO 2025, the VISION LASER is now the focus of the industry. In this interview, Silas Junger (Product Manager Ultrahard Materials) explains the technological advantages the machine offers and how it clearly distinguishes itself from other solutions on the market.

Silas Junger: We have consistently learned from the challenges we faced back then and incorporated this experience into our further development. Key areas of focus included, in particular, the reliability of the laser source, serviceability and maintainability, process stability during tool machining, and user-friendliness. In the new generation of machines, these points have been specifically addressed and integrated into a holistic solution concept. The result is a significantly more mature, robust and user-friendly machine that meets today’s market requirements.

Many customers appreciate the fact that WALTER is a new supplier of laser technology on the market, meaning they are no longer reliant on a single manufacturer. A key focus during development was on maximum user-friendliness. Through both the intuitive C.O.R.E. operating system and smart features such as automatic calibration and in-process cameras, we aimed to minimise manual intervention as much as possible. Another key priority was the machine’s serviceability. Our laser source is highly versatile, and changeover times are extremely short – a clear advantage over many competitors. This ensures the machine operates very productively, and downtime is reduced to a minimum. Overall, this combination of user-friendliness, high productivity and simple maintenance ensures that our customers can work efficiently and reliably in their day-to-day operations.

Our approach combines the best of both worlds: we offer a standardised base machine that is already highly capable and reliable, whilst at the same time providing sufficient flexibility to meet a variety of customer requirements. For example, customers can choose from various options for software packages, tool clamping systems, automation and peripheral units, so that the machine can be optimally adapted to their individual production processes. As a result, our customers benefit both from the efficiency and cost advantages of a standardised solution and from the ability to integrate specific requirements – without having to compromise on quality or serviceability.

Our main strategic focus has been on replacing wire EDM machines – particularly in the PCD sector – with our innovative laser technology. This enables the non-contact manufacture of high-quality tools with extremely precise cutting edges, excellent surface finishes and short production cycles.
Compared to EDM, these machines operate without consumables such as wire or dielectric fluid, making machining not only more cost-effective but also more environmentally friendly. As a result, customers save resources, optimise their processes and, at the same time, benefit from significantly better cutting edges and surface finishes.
This opens up great potential, particularly in the woodworking sector: when planning new investments, customers can rely on laser technology to replace their wire EDM machines and produce more efficiently, sustainably and precisely.

The market for laser machines is highly competitive. However, many manufacturers focus solely on specific applications or sectors. Our strength lies in the fact that we offer a universal machine that is extremely flexible in terms of tool specifications, sizes and applications. This enables us to serve both the woodworking sector and the metal industry efficiently.
Furthermore, our customers benefit from the integration of additional technologies within our group. This means the laser machine can be easily combined with other equipment – for example, via a robotic loader capable of operating two machines simultaneously. This enables a significant increase in the efficiency of the production cell, as well as unmanned production overnight or at weekends, without any interruptions to production.

Yes, our in-house exhibitions took place in May and June 2025 – one in Tübingen and one at our production site in the Czech Republic. In Tübingen, we were able to showcase all our machines, whilst the exhibition in the Czech Republic was a more compact event, complemented by specialist presentations. Both events were very well received. In the Czech Republic, we also had the opportunity to show our customers the production process, which was particularly interesting and informative for many visitors. Overall, the in-house exhibitions were a very valuable opportunity to provide direct insights into our technologies and processes and to foster personal interaction with our customers.

Thank you very much, Mr Junger, for speaking with us. We wish you and the WALTER team continued success with VISION LASER, and hope your innovative solutions continue to receive a positive response.